Lynn's Catfish Calendar 2011

Here it is, Lynn's Catfish Calendar 2011 for the month of January.

Special Notes up front:

For those catfishermen/women who are limited to weekend only--- Oddly, there are no Saturday BlueCat (BC) days in January, February, and March, but there are some Sunday BlueCat (BC) days.

As to YellowCats roam/feed patterns--- Even though listed as BFT ("Buffet" or assorted catches aka anything goes, you just never know), December 31st/January 1st, as well as January 27th/28th fall into the YellowCat (YC) pattern I discovered back in 1981-1982 of 7/2/7/2/7/3 & repeat (the 2 days & 3 days are YellowCat aka YC roam-feed pattern days).

Still working on the hard copy version for the full year of 2011. Will let you know when completed & have the first few printed, as to being available.

I am glad to be getting some postive feedback from some of you, as to starting to try the calendar & getting good results. While they say a bad day fishing, is better than a good day working; I think if we have a better day fishing, it is even GREATER. And in these times & economy, some of us are stretched thin on finances, so we want the best bang for our buck (best catches for our time & money spent).

For previous additional information, see the 1st thread "Lynn's Catfish Calendar" started in 2010 (methinks), especially if you would like some background info as to the calendar itself that I shared in an article in the May 2008 Central Texas Catfish magazine-newsletter issue. I didn't create the Catfish Calendar, I just discovered it & learned to key in on it.

I will post the monthly calendar a few days ahead of each new month here on the TFF.

If you would like the Quarterly issue (sent out by regular email, not via the Forum), drop me an email at <hlynnh@peoplepc.com> & I'll put you on my Catfish Calendar Crew list. It's free. That way you can plan further ahead. For the full year, you have to get the hard copy so you can really map out your fishing year. Basically, I have been letting it go for about what it costs to print. I am hoping to have a finalized printed copy before next weekend unless I hit a snag. Will let you know when it is available. It not only has the calendar, but tips, along with pics & captions-stories. The 2011 hard copy edition (Forum Research Edition) will even feature a few of you. Each are numbered, as one day they may become a collector's edition. The 2010 hard copy is still available & I think I can get the 2009 first edition reprinted as well.

Lynn’s Catfish Calendar- January 2011
Sunday / Monday / Tuesday / Wednesday / Thursday / Friday / Saturday
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXX | XXX | XXX | XXX | XXX | XXX | 1 BFT
2 ZIP | 3 ZIP | 4 ZIP | 5 ZIP | 6 BC | 7 BFT | 8 BFT
9 YC | 10 YC | 11 ZIP | 12 ZIP | 13 BC | 14 BC | 15 ZIP
16 BC | 17 YC | 18 YC | 19 BC | 20 BC | 21 BC | 22 BFT
23 BC | 24 ZIP | 25 ZIP | 26 BFT | 27 BFT | 28 BFT | 29 ZIP
30 ZIP | 31 ZIP |
===============================================================

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Lynn’s Catfish Calendar- KEY:
YC = YellowCat // BC = BlueCat // BFT = Buffet (assorted) // ZIP = Zip (not very good)
Tip- Always bait out lines the night before a YC or BC day.
Tip- Gator Gars run ahead of YellowCats, so bait out late (between 11 PM to 1 AM).
Tip- BlueCats also bite good on YC days, but you can rack ‘em up on BC days.
Tip- Some variations or alterations are due to weather or other external influences.
Tip- For Rod-n-Reelers, use Solunar Tables (etc.) also for best times with my calendar.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Are these dates that you have calculated specific to your area, or do they apply across the whole state? Thanks for the info.

Philpot

The Calendar dates work across Texas. In 2007/2008, I got feedback from one former A.C.A.T.S. member that the Blues follow it up in Oklahoma as well. Not sure if he was rod-n-reeling or running set lines, but he emailed me & said, It WORKS!

Soon I might have a previous co-worker check it out down in Mexico east of San Luis area, as he moved back down there at the first of the year.

I have only focused on Yellows & Blues. At first it was just Yellows, due to other findings. Then out of the "Blue", I also found out about Blues.

If you want Channels, it seems that BFT (Buffet) days usually have more of them than on any other days.

Working the calendar as to set lines will be slightly different than if you work it for rod-n-reel.

Good one GOOD WORD BRO. works! for sure this we know. Let me know how I can help. Iam totaly available and love research.
Do Yall take pay pal?

Thank You Lynn for posting this.

Hi "mrmakAUCTIONEER",

Glad to hear it works for you!

I've been working away on the 2011 Calendar today transferring the 4 Catfish Codes from the RTF version to the Calendar setup program. You know I have to double, actually triple check to make sure I have made no errors. Lo & behold I found one day I had marked as BC, but should have been ZIP. It should not affect anyone, as it was May 3rd. Only one that has the whole year for 2011, other than myself, is Jody (T.D. for Central Texas Catfish).

Had to stop to cook supper here. You guessed it, fried Catfish. Yep, was a mix of boneless chunks of Blues (3#, 9+#, 25.25#) from the 18th. I was soaking out the boneless meat of the Blues a bit more, and will bag the rest in Ziplocs with water & freeze them tonight.

So I decided to check email before starting back on calendar & my sister alerted me of your post. She said if you can only use Paypal, she has an account. I usually take a check or money order in snail mail. If I have copies ahead of time, I usually go ahead & send them out before getting paid (reimbursed).

But let me finish 2011 calendar (hard copy) first. Once I have my end done, then I have it set up at OfficeMax (Adam does a great job & can set it up super fast as a PDF printable file so they can click on it on the CD & let the printer take over so no pages get printed wrong & they are actually cheaper than some of the print shops around), get some printed to reproof, and then I can give the cost. 2009 edition was about $13 due to a super sale price on calendars. I did a mini Catfish calendar 25% size) up with the photos & caption, but used their full calendar month (due to that super low price). Last years cost was $15, as I incorporated the calendar into a self made regular calendar & they weren't still on their super sale price. Plus I had a color page insert (Bonus Sheet).

So I'll post the info when it is ready. I got my fingers crossed hoping it will be before this coming weekend (8th/9th). Sure hope Adam (at IMpress at OfficeMax) is still here or already back from college Holidays, as he knows exactly how to do things fast & correct.

Hang in there & this next week I will hopefully know the price (cost) plus postage. But looking forward to your feedback & help in researching more. Jeff & James at the Lake (Limestone) watched me for years & finally decided to do what I told them & follow the calendar. In less than 30 days their 4th YellowCat was a nice 62.4# Op. In all their years of catfishing, they had never caught a YellowCat. They were still shaking from the excitement 30 minutes later when I arrived. Their using the calendar & feedback has been exceptional. They are finding some new info I had not found or realized. But they have become more aware & at least taking mental notes to tell me that I jot down to help us all.

Looking forward to your assistance!

Not a problem "bbop1111",

Glad to be able to share.

Have a Great New Year!

Some have been emailing me as to getting on my free email list (Catfish Calendar Crew), as I send the calendar months in Quarters (3 months) FREE via private email by way of BCC (so it cloaks everyone's E-dress to ensure privacy). So it is a manual list, not an automatic one. I was keeping up earlier today, but had to focus on the calendar setup, so a few of you might not get the update (dated 29th) that went out to the Calendar Crew, as well as the 1st Quarter (Ja/Feb/Mar RTF calendars plus KEY that will print out on 1 page) until tomorrow, so I can finish the transfer dates up tonight. Then I have to compile the two page write-up which will have updates & tips after the cover, figure out what pics for the Cover to use, then assemble pics & stories (lengthy captions), get photos developed as needed & put in page paste-ups for scanning as full pages, and such.


And I really appreciate everyone's feedback & those who have volunteered to get their pics & stories in this 2011 edition. There is still time, I can fit 3 more in, but I need to hear from you super qwik. I am sure everyone would get tired of seeing my mug on all 12, plus cover. I think its great to have others pictured & hear their tale of the catch pictured. I need to print the photos from digitals at Walgreens at least by mid-week, so I can have the past-ups ready to scan, then transferred to a CD. Be it a really nice one (an 8# Cat is fine), or a good catch (mess of Cats). Doesn't matter the method (set lines or rod-n-reel), as long as it/them was/were taken legally.

OH, almost forgot, in the 2011 hard copy, I am going to share two secrets that I may have hinted about (how they can help you, one if you have set lines but might also work with rod-n-reels too, and the other if you are trying to target YellowCats regardless of legal method) as Keying in further on the Catfish Calendar.

As you know, or are aware, these are tuff times, and sometimes you have to watch your expenses. Even though we would like to fish all of the time, expenses can run big. Such as gas for vehicle, gas & oil for boat motor, maintennance & repair, as well as tires for both, license plate renewals, and the list goes on. Maybe bait costs, as well as grub for yourself, ramp fees, drinks (you need to stay hydrated in winter as well as summer concerning dehydration), and the list continues. And now they are talking of gasoline getting up to $5 a gallon in a year or so. I know none of us are looking forward to that. So that will squeeze a bit more from our funds. You will want every trip to be fruitful & worth its cost.

The Catfish Calendar's purpose is two-fold, as I see and understand it. First is to get the most volume for your time, effort & dollar. As we say, the biggest bang for your buck. It does not matter if you are practicing CPR or if you are filling your freezer. Second is that one day, whether you like it or not, you may very well depend on catfish to eat & live on. Yes, even those of you who are using CPR, may very well depend upon those Cats you toss back now. By saving them now, they may save you around the bend. Isn't it ironic how the pendulum swings to & fro? As you use the calendar, you will start to pick up on other patterns that you never realized (yet now they are brought into focus) & learn to key in on them (in addition to the calendar).

Well, back to the grind. Umm, I mean calendar ...

Hi Lynn--
If you have room for me I would like on that list please.


I would also want to buy a calender when you get the info and put it out.

I just bought a a small fishing boat so i will be able to get on the water more and want to use all the tools I can to get better.

Thanks,

Steve

Hi Steve,

Will put you on & kick the update & 1st Qtr. by Noon unless I oversleep. Whew, I think I gazed at enough letters & numbers tonight. The Calendar months are done as to mapping out from transferring data from the RTF versions. Tomorrow comes fun part-2 pager for the hard copy (inside cover & next page & then the 12 months (assigning the pics & writing up the stories), then trying to make them fit.

Time for some Vitamin Zzzzzzzzz.
Already had Vitamin B-C tonight. (Blue-Cat)

I posted most of this in another thread & figured I better extract some of it & repost it here too.

My code keys (with a tad bit more comments):
YC=YellowCat (follows a definite 7-2-7-2-7-3 [they hit on the 2s & 3s] & repeat cycle, but Blues also bite fairly well)/ BC=BlueCat (Rack 'em up, their cycles are a bit more erratic or random)/ BFT=Buffet (assorted catches & they sometimes overlay on hidden YC days) [NOTE: seems Channels do pick up on set lines on BFT days]/ ZIP=Zip or Nada or very little- bait may be stripped or not touched.

I also explain that they are day by day, so they work well for set lines (for taking the whole day into account of lines set in one place).

For rod-n-reelers, you have many advantages as to some factors, such as a boat, scope, and targeting groups spotted with assorted baits. But most do not stay at it a whole day & may hit when they truly roam/feed or not. But you have the advantage of being able to drop supper or a snack right on the table in front of them.

OK, looking over the catfish calendar here for January 2011:
Fri 31st & Sat 1st were BFT, but overlaid the YC cycle
ZIP for Sun 2nd thru Wed 5th
BC for Thurs 6th
BFT for Fri 7th & Sat 7th
YC for Sun 8th & Mon. 9th
ZIP for Tues 11th & Wed 12th
BC for Thurs 13th & Fri 14th
ZIP for Sat15th
BC for Sun 16th
YC for Mon 17th & Tues 18th
BC for Wed 19th thru Fri 21st
BFT for Sat 22nd
BC for Sun 23rd
ZIP for Mon 24th & Tues 25th
BFT for Wed 26th thru Fri 28th
ZIP for Sat 29th thru Wed Feb 2nd


Also take note that YC days are overlayed by the BFT days. The "hidden" YC days are the 3 days of their patterned cycle: Wed 26th, Thurs 27th, and Fri 28th.

Also to note as to fish not biting these past few days: We had a luner eclipse the other day & a solar one coming up (unless I just missed it). Also we are in one of the very active solar cycles. The sun runs a regular 11 year cycle. Several major earthquakes have taken place & normally precede & follow these eclipses. I am sure you recall that "There is nothing new under the Sun. It was of old already." [meaning the cycles/patterns were there all along, but you just had to rediscover or refind them]

Also by way of the Catfish Calendar research, I also found that Gator Gars seem to follow the YC pattern as well. Sometimes they feed just ahead of the Yellows, and leave most of the bait missing before the Yellows hit. Even though I know the prime times for Yellows to hit are from 10 PM thru 2 AM, it is not unusual for them to hit while I am setting out a trotline in the daytime. I think it's their method of shaking hands with me to know my feeding them is appreciated & "game on" (something similar to the start of some ball game).

And some say that Yellows do not bite in colder months, or something similar. I catch them all year round.

Off & runnin' or Zzzzzzzzzzing,

+++++++++++++++++++
Added note after editing later---
OOPS! I'll take a DUH for 10 points. "opus", thanks a heap for catching my Keyboard face dive doze-off (obviously). I recall my head was bobbing there a second or two & I did not have a sheet to help keep focus as I was looking far away.

Corrected here now:
BFT for Fri 7th & Sat 8th
YC for Sun 9th & Mon. 10th

HEY ya got a fri 7th and a sat the 7th, then there is Mon the 9th and Tues the 11th boy what a weird month

OOPS! I'll take a DUH for 10 points. "opus", thanks a heap for catching my Keyboard face dive doze-off (obviously). I recall my head was bobbing there a second or two & I did not have a sheet to help keep focus as I was looking far away.

Corrected here:
BFT for Fri 7th & Sat 8th
YC for Sun 9th & Mon. 10th

And corrected in note below on original listing.

Thanks for catching that! Thank Goodness I mapped out the calendar versions when I was awake last week & double checked them 3 ways to make sure I did not goof. Caught a one day error by doing that, but never figured how I had done that. Only one who had that day in May was Jody of CTC, other than me.

This is submitted in response to those who have hit a snag in your fishing this past week. I offer one plausible external influence also.

A bit of brief Catfish Calendar History:

Actually, the catfish calendar patterns on Yellows & Blues were discovered in 1981-1982 while fishing in the Brazos, Navasota, and Trinity Rivers (3 rivers nearby). From 1983-1986, I tested it to the max in the Trinity River mainly due to having free access to a place they called "the Park" (downriver from TX 21 bridge some 25 bends down). It was due to the calendar days on YC (YellowCat) that sometimes as I baited one throwline and/or trotline that "Big'Un" would sometimes hit while I was baiting the trotline, so I pegged it as being a Yellow, not a Blue (as it did not hit as a Blue would on BC days). After 2 years of pursuit & many previously bent out hooks, I finally got it on a YC weekend almost 2 years later.

Then split up & divorce hit in 86-87, which slowed me down to pursue further research on it at the time. I managed to go here & there, as money or time allowed. It picked up in 1991-1994, continued into 1996, as we moved out by the Navasota River (1.5 miles away on TX 21), but not as strong as I had hoped, due to lack of time & money. From '94-'96 I had access to my cousin's boat due to her husband passing away. He had asked her to be sure & get the boat to me to preserve from the other "hungry" relatives who would try to get it. After all of that settled, she & future husband picked it up.

Being a private researcher, I research many other avenues into depth from early 1997 on up to present. One online group, which I founded by email, is named *The Academy* of which I am the overseer. We keep watch of things globally & are something akin to a think tank of 100 to 200 members, which follows in the footsteps of Plato's & Einstein's "Academy". So if you really think my research is shallow or not thorough, I am sure many Academy members would get a good laugh on that one.

But in 2001, I was asked to come get my cousin's boat & use it, to keep it from disrepair sitting around, so we did. After my brother-in-law's untimely death in January 2002, my sister decided to get our family together on a big camping/fishing trip. First it was Fort Parker Lake, but things changed dramatically at it over the years so that was tossed. Livingston was chosen next but that also failed to find a spot as most places were already booked for the July 4th (2002) holidays, and she had to have a place for her new RV trailer (electricity & water hookup).

So she found a few lots still available at Running Branch Marina & Campground on Lake Limestone. While it was very hot those 4 or 5 days & I did not think I did spectacular, some catfishermen there somehow thought I must have been onto something, as they failed to produce as much as me. My biggest was a 12# Blue. But this was a new place & I was still studying it out. We fell in love with the place & the owners- Darrell & Nancy, were really friendly folks. I blew my timing belt on my Camry going back pulling the boat & trailer up the steep Concord Hill on TX 7. But I liked the place & in 3 weeks, we were back. Biggest was only 7# Blue that trip & extremely hot. We hit the Trinity 3 times & Lake Livingston once from August thru October. Then my son-in-law & I decided to do a Thanksgiving Trip (2002) but were undecided as to Trinity River or Lake Limestone. We weighed the pros & cons of both places & finally decided to chose Running Branch (on Limestone).

I had come up with a special design trotline for deeper waters, mainly for a lake. I had shared my design with a Game Warden back in 1984 or 1985, as I wanted to make sure the set-up was legal. He said he saw no problem with it & thought it was really neat. I call it "the Planter". I started off with the first design that July 4th trip in 2002. But revised it several times over the next few years. And between the family, we had as many as 3 at a time somewhere at the bottom of the lake or in "the Cove" (a place I nicknamed which was about 20 feet deep, but escaped most winds).

After the 168# haul that November 2002 in only 4 runs of the lines, I decided to buckle down & continue the resaerch into Phase 2- on lakes now. Obviously, it paid off, as the Turkey Trip in 2003 after only able to set a few jugs & only one "Planter" due to us being caught in a storm that came in just a bit earlier than expected, the weekend before. The boat rolled over & lost a lot of gear at a pier & ramp on the opposite side at the bottom of the lake. I managed to get the water out & crank it up 3 times a day until heading back that Wednesday night. Only to have the motor conk out as I tried to back off the trailer. It seems somebody designed a pin hole in the electronics that if water gets in it, it fries it & it did. Darrell offered to take me out once a day to run lines, as he had access to a boat he was hoping to buy. We pulled in 269# worth in those 4 days (4 runs of the few lines I had out). Needless to say, even though Darrell sometimes ribs me about the catfish calendar, he can vouch that obviously I have something that works for me.

Cutting it short here, many others there who visit Running Branch regularly nicknamed me "Catfish" (kids called me "Catfish Man"), including some of the Crappie fisherman. While over the years, I always spoke of certain techniques & my catfish calendar. It was after several years that 3 decided to finally test my calendar there at RB to see if it worked. 2 of the 3 for sure had never caught a Yellow before. Within 30 days of knowing when to bait out for Yellows (as to the calendar on YC days), their 3rd was over 30 pounds & their 4th was a 62.4# grayish looking Op. They now knew it worked. There was no doubt of it & that it worked for them too, not just me. One of the 3 (Elvin) developed serious back problems & has not been able to go fishing since & we miss him dearly & hope one day he will be able to return. Meanwhile, Jeff & his son James (JS) are my two prize students, excelling as to using the calendar. And by doing so, have provided tremendously much more feedback than I could ever have hoped to achieve by myself. So, as you can tell, I know it works on lakes, as well as the rivers, as do themselves.

I also shared with one former A.C.A.T.S. member of the catfish calendar & he encouraged me to share it with the group via the magazine. But the editor basically was focused on the Solunar tables & dismissed me as to the possibility. However, that member tried out the calendar as to Blues, but not sure if it was by set lines or rod-n-reels. He was up in Oklahoma & tried it. Not sure if on lakes or rivers. But shortly thereafter, he wrote back with, "It Works!". So, we now knew it worked out of state, not just a Texas phenomenon.

A.C.A.T.S. was sold & several of the Texas chapters decided it woukld be too far off for new tourneys, so they became their own organization. Either way, I think Dennis Rice should get the credit for everything, as he helped to start up the Catfish Tourneys enthusiasm.

One local one that branched off was CTC (Central Texas Catfish) headed up by Gene Painter & Jody Goodman. I have a lot of respect for these guys, as they did this when the economy was on a downswing & it has prevailed. Jody is from the town my Mom came from, up above Lake Limestone, so I guess I felt at ease with sharing an article for the CTC magazine/newsletter, which had grown to a color 28 pager in 2008 (before the printing press broke down later, and having been in the printing business for many years, they aren't cheap to repair). Jody put my public article on the Catfish Calendar in the May 2008 issue, so in a sense, I feel I owe it to him & Gene for allowing me to go public with the research I've found.

However, I stress that the calendar focuses upon a full 24 hour day, not just a few hours of it. And that I have used it primarily on set lines consisting of trotlines, throwlines, juglines, set hooks, and limb lines, not rod-n-reel. So I have stressed certain things in the comparison of the two (set lines vs. Rod-n-Reels). Each side has its highs & lows, as to the catfish calendar.

And I have shared that those using set lines will see & experience an increase in their catches probably much more qwikker than a rod-n-reeler. And some of you have already indicated that to me on the side by PMs via TFF or on private email. But I have explained that a rod-n-reeler who consistantly uses it, can finally fine tune it to make it work in that avenue as well.

Now, when you hit a rough patch of a few days or a week or so, you have to remember that a full year consists of 365 days or 52 weeks, its easy to brush something aside easily & claim, "It no workie". However, to drill into something a foot deep, only shows a bit of its true nature. Drilling 20 or more feet surprisingly brings it much more into focus. And even so, drilling 50 feet deep into something reveals that much more. I feel I have drilled deep enough to prove to myself & several others that the catfish calendar (as to Yellows & Blues) is no fluke or is a placebo effect. These patterns are inlaid & there to stay. As you may know, everything in this physical universe is numbered & set in order. For instance, new things emerge every day concerning DNA & mapping it out. Your methods, your patience, your consistency, the bait you use, and other factors all contribute to whether you will succeed or fail. With the Catfish Calendar, you are given that cutting edge to help you succeed. When you fall in a game, do you stay down? Or do you get right back up & get back into the game?

There are many external factors that can also affect the calendar. For instance weather, sudden changes in water or pressure, thermocline, and so on. Sometimes you can work around them, sometimes you can't.

I have shared concerning my findings & research on the Catfish Calendar. I would not even think of being so bold to claim it worked, if I had not proven it to myself, or at least a few others. It is entirely up to you as to whether you will or will not see if it works for you. My first wife will tell you when I pursue something, I never ever give up until I finally get to its source. My friends call me deep. My church members call me deep. My metaphysical friends call me deep. My fellow catfisherman/women at RB know my depth & heart towards catfish & the calendar. One internet researcher once said I was like an Internet Researcher on steroids. My mentor (an educational & philosophical instructor) from 1986-1988 said I read more books in 6 months than some people do in a lifetime. I am a puzzle-gatherer, as I seem to find things & then assemble it to get a big picture. My uncle (JW), after moving in with us a few years ago, now knows my uncanny ability to find things also works for finding "lost" things, in that if something is missing, he'll tell me to keep an eye out for it. I usually find about 75% of those items.

With that said, the ball is in your hands, and as Yoda once said in "The Empire Strikes Back", "there is no try or try not". You either do it or you don't


This is one plausible explanation of the recent fishing problems many are experiencing:
On a sidenote as to the recent downside of fish not biting, even according to the Catfish Calendar, we recently had a lunar eclipse, and I forget if the solar eclipse has already occurred or not. Certain things such as major earthquakes will be within a window before & after these eclipses. It is on record. But on 12-31-10, a vast coronal hole opened up on the sun's atmosphere. This affects the solar magnetic field & solar winds prevail. The Earth can receive the initial hits as early as within minutes to a day. The duration of these charged particles bombarding us could last into late January (this month).

One thing these "hits" can do, is knock out satellites, as we have learned over the past few years are very vulnerable, including power grids. But we, especially animals & fish operate on a magnetic guidance system. Screw with it, and it can alter anything, including feeding habits. Recent research reveals satellite data showing herds of cattle gaze in a north to south or south to north pattern. Fish depend on this magnetic memory (instinct is what we usually call it) to spawn upriver. Birds navigate & migrate using this magnetic memory. I guess you recently have noticed a few bird, fish, and crab kills in the past week or so, in the news. This may well be the underlying cause even though many scientists are unaware of the coronal hole & discharge.

Thanks Lynn!

Not a problem!

I just wanted some to realize that the Catfish Calendar is not some fluke or something that only worked just on one river some 30 years back, and that others are trying it out and improving their catches. One of the best teachers is keeping logs in addition to the calendar. The other being experience, of course. And now adding other's experiences as well. In the hard copy this year (2011) is (will be when completed & ready for printing) is 4 secrets to the Catfish Calendar to help tune into it for greater results. I think 2 was due to my best students at RB- Jeff & James (JS). Because they shared, I realized a few more things. So by everyone sharing their results, good or bad, I keep adding more data to the Calendar research. Yes, some days may not match what the Calendar has on it, but usually there is some external factor, if found, that was the culprit. In the majority though, the Calendar prevails. The patterns are there, we just don't realize it.

Hope things have calmed down since your last outing. Hope your next one does better & no snags.

Did you say you were using wieners awhile back? If so, what kind & how big of a chunk & size hooks? You know me, just gotta research it to see for myself. If not, in your last brief outing, what bait was used?

WHEW !! I AM TO TIRED TO GO TRY IT OUT NOW.

Just wanted everyone to know that as of Monday (25th), I had the first 4 copies of "Lynn's Catfish calendar 2011 Forum Research Edition" printed. 4 of you are featured in the September (1 by R-n-R), October (2 by R-n-R), and December (1 by trot) months. The top pics/caps pages printed great. The bottom calendar dated months pages seem to have a little fuzz in the background/impression. I will have to get with Adam to see if anything can be done about that. Other than that, the 2011 hard copies are now available. Yahoo, a milestone!!! Even though a few weeks delay because of anything under the sun that kept hitting me, including running out of color ink & a huge coyote hitting me (and my Chevy P/U) on the way home with the first 4 calendars. Once again, they will be individually numbered, because one day they will be a collector's item & you can show that yours is an original.

Looks like we got the price down to $13 each this year. Adam (at OfficeMax's IMpress) & I both went over the figures to be absolutely sure. My cost to get them printed runs from $12.50 to $13.00 each with tax. If you need them mailed, I think $2.00 each should cover it. It was between 1.50 & 2.00 (my cost) for USPS last year. So, $13 each & $2 postage (would be $15 total then).

So if you want one, drop me an email at <hlynnh@peoplepc.com> to let me know if you plan on ordering one. And money order (postal or the kind you can get at some convenience or grocery stores) or check made out to me, can be sent to me at:
H. Lynn Herrmann
20136 FM 974
Bryan, TX 77808-8700

I will send them as soon as I receive your MO or check, usually within 2 or 3 days (unless I have a few already on hand), as I will get them printed one day & ship on another day. I will try to keep a few copies on hand (accordingly to my pocketbook) for those of you I bump into between here & there at the lake (Limestone) that don't need them shipped.

I guess it's about time to post the February month also. The good thing about the hard copy, is that you have access to the whole year & can plan way ahead. That's what I did back in the 1980s, as I planned my vacations according to the catfish calendar.

And here's February ...

Key is listed with the January (so back up on this thread).

Duh, let me try it once more, as I pasted in January again.

Lynn’s Catfish Calendar- February 2011
Sunday / Monday / Tuesday / Wednesday / Thursday / Friday / Saturday
| 1 ZIP | 2 ZIP | 3 BC | 4 BC | 5 YC
6 YC | 7 ZIP | 8 ZIP | 9 ZIP | 10 BC | 11 BC | 12 ZIP
13 ZIP | 14 YC | 15 YC | 16 BC | 17 BC | 18 BFT | 19 BFT
20 BC | 21 BC | 22 ZIP | 23 BFT | 24 BFT | 25 ZIP | 26 ZIP
27 ZIP | 28 BC |
===============================================================

For a great post and awesome calendar.

I purchased this last year and proved to be absolutely outstanding!!! The results were spot on providing average weather patterns.

I live in the Dallas area for those that were asking what areas this works in. Worked in mine.

I live in Houston area. Calendar works here and at Lake Livingston ! Thanks Lynn !!!

Not a problem guys. Glad to assist. That's what it's all about, sharing our findings, successes, failures, triumphs, losses, and that we are all each unique, like the many facets of a diamond. Many might not think it, but I am learning from many of you. And I'm takin' notes, so I don't forget.

And when those share their experiences with the catfish calendar, I can compile even more data & it helps to enhance & understand it much more, to which I can relay it to others. And this is something that I could never do alone. So I thank you as we journey together to learn more about catfish.

In the 2011 hard copy, up on the front two page inside write-up, along with a few other tips, are 4 secrets of the calendar. Two of which are "bleedover" & how to find the YC days which are overshadowed by BFT (Buffet) days.

Lynn, awesome job, been reading your posts on here and I really need to actually remember to apply it when I go out fishing!!

One question - have you considered using Google Calendar to help with the task of publishing your calendar?? Basically it will give you the ability to easily maintain it every month, and then share it with everyone in a calendar format. For more information, on it, go to calendar.google.com.

I use google maps a lot (like many do) and put together a DFW bank fishing map using google maps. It's gotten a lot of positive feedback.

If this interests you and you need any assistance - be happy to help.

Thanks Kitty Womper,

I forget what "Odwraca" shared awhile back, if it was something similar, or not. I would have to look back in my archives, or run back to the 2010 thread on TFF to see. I think it was something different. I will have to check it out, to see if it will do what I do to the hard copy. My problem is lack of time. Of course, that might save time if I had the time. Ironic, huh? Kind of like the snake biting its tail in the circle (hoop) or the dog chasing its own tail.

The "RTF" version I share here on the TFF looks totally different because of the switch or conversion to HTML (HTM). HTM/HTML does not allow indents & certain spacing, therefore it shifts to the left. After I map out a year in the early Fall, from that calendar, I then assemble the RTF version, for simplicity, lower KB, and universiality (Hmm, is this one of those Sarah Palin words?).

From that version, I transfer the data (manually) to the format that I use in my "The Print Shop 2.0" [BroderBand] program which also does calendars, as these steps also give me certain checkpoints to make sure I have not made errors. It saves the calendars in some sort of CAL file which can only be opened/interpreted with the BroderBand program. It does have its "BroderBand PDF converter". It can also make a copy in PDF.

However, I have run into a problem. The full page converted PDF file has a bad shadow on the numbers (dates) on the calendars. The only way I could overcome it, was to print the CAL files (all 12 months), then scan them in a LexMark X74-75, save them as a JPG, then let Adam at OfficeMax convert them to PDF files, as he does the scanned JPG copy of the Top sections which are a paste up of multiple pics, caption stories, and such. Then he takes all of the PDF files, of the 12 & the other 12, plus the Cover pic, and the two inside pages and lays them out in the format for their printing setup. And he can do it in 10 minutes, which only costs me $10 for his super tech work. I am sure if I had the time, I could also do a digital paste-up in the BroderBand program, but I have not had the time to sit & play with it. The problem is each month's top page is different. There may be one pic, or up to 4 (some are snipped down to fit). The 2010 Edition had a lot of 3x5 (or similar) pics instead of the standard 4x6's.

June for instance (on the hard copy) for 2011 Edition has two ads (one for Running Branch Marina) and a Tackle-Bait Shop up in Oklahoma. Neither one has paid me to put it in there, but has given me the OK (permission) to use their insignia ad. There is a brief caption (write-up) for each. I could not find my pictures for the Central Texas Catfish 2010 Youth Catfish Tournament, or I would have added one of my grandson holding a rod-n-reel combo he won. But I did a write-up for CTC & list the tournament dates for this year, as well as have them on the calendar dates they fall on. Fonts on the printed portions run from size 8 to size 12, which depend upon how much room is spared for the caption story (stories or write-ups in June).

And speaking of time, I am about to have to divert over to some other research with another group. Everybody is familiar with Einstein's E=MC2 equation of energy & matter, which paved the way for the atomic bomb. I am sure many have also heard of the UFT or Unified Field Theory that Einstein tried to peg in a formula. Actually he did, but it was decided that mankind would abuse it, so withdrew it until a time in the future civilization could use it in a positive manner. But only a closed circle knew of that. Now these two, plus the 2 theories of relativity come in from the physics angle (Theoretical or otherwise). My work focuses upon a different angle of the UFT & Energy/Matter conversion. It comes in from the angle of Harmonics or Sonics. In other words, certain combinations of Sound Vibrations built everything ranging from the highest spiritual plane down to the lowest physical one. IT has the power inherent/infused/bestowed of 3 aspects to be able to be directed to 1) Create, 2) Destroy/Transform/Revivify/Renew, and 3) Save/Heal/Preserve. I am sure some might recognize those 3 aspects from a certain religious perspective right away. To put it simply, it can be used/directed/utilized for energy & matter conversion in a myriad ways, as well as have power over the space-time continuum.

And I also have another group to which I will be giving an update upon ancient records, structures, and their markers in time, among other things. Briefly for instance, the 3 Pyramids of Giza as to correlating with the 3 belt stars of Orion & the flooded Nile as the Milky Way, using time chart programs, the small queen's pyramids placed to the end of the 3 Pyramids at different angles, mark two points in time (as to alignment), some 12,960 years apart (about a half cycle thru the 12 Constellations). One is 10,948 BC/BCE. The other is marked or indicates 2012. Another point recently brought up, is that there were 4 pyramids originally. The 4th was dismantled in the 1700s & used thruout Cairo for building purposes. It was a black pyramid known as the Pyramid of the Moon.

Anyway, I will try to get with you this week on the side as to this Google Calendar. One thing to bear in mind is that I have dial-up internet service out here in the country ranging from 45.2 to 50.6 KBps. Fibre optic cables are on the opposite side of the highway. Ironic that some of the news of the things in Egypt the previous few days got out via "dial-Up", as most internet access was shut down, as well as cell phones.

Decided to post this here also, to assist those to understand a little more as to the ZIP days. Hope it helps.---


On ZIP days, by fishing, you still have a chance, but your percentages fall downhill by quite a bit. But I have found using set lines, that I have come up empty probably 50% of the time. Sometimes I catch a few, but I can tell the volume count fell considerably. Sometimes the bait was stripped off (or almost emptied) & other times the bait just stayed there live or otherwise. Few times only a few were missing.

Not impossible to catch some, by using Rod-n-Reel especially. The Catfish Calendar of mine focuses mainly on Yellows & Blues. If you want to find out as to Channels, Bullheads, or the Whites (in the east USA), you'll have to do your own research. It is keyed into what I refer to as their "roam-feed" habits. I also stress that in a relative type view, people & fish can be compared. Not all people work the normal 8 to 5 weekday job. Some work the evening shift, and others the graveyard shift. Some do it of neccesity, some because their rhythm or clock walks to a different beat. Nothing wrong with it, as life is diverse. Therefore, I share my best estimate as to the percentage of fish (catfish- Yellows & Blues) that follow the "norm" (between 66% & 75%), as opposed to those that don't walk (swim) to the same beat (between 25% to 33%). So you see, it is not impossible to catch the catfish in this scenerio, but your odds are a heckuva lot lower. And you may not run into any of those running "rogue" (meaning not following the standard pattern), then you will know exactly what ZIP really meant.

The calendar is also based upon a full 24 hour day, not just a portion of it. However, sometimes when they hit, they really hit, regardless of what type of day on my calendar. A set line mainly depends upon fish visiting it by roaming to feed, even though they may be roosting there. But eventually, your catch will depend on visitors coming thru or to it. The advantage is that the lines are there for the full 24 hour days unless you pull them. So you will see the Catfish Calendar in action much more faster.

The Rod-n-Reeler has certain advantages over set lines. The differences are: 1) several ways to work your lines, as well as working different depths, 2) you can keep switching baits around to see if you finally find the "one", 3) with a boat, you are mobile & can hit many different areas on a lake or river, 4) using a scope to find bait, feeding fish, or just fish in general.

Another tremendous factor, is to take a catfish guided tours with one of those here on the TFF, or another you may know of. You can't go wrong, as these guides have logged many & many of hours on the lakes & rivers near their home base. So they are very familiar with those they run constantly. They must succeed, if they wish to survive. So, by their experiences & constant repetitive fishing, they excel. And you can learn a great deal from them in the process.

One Crappie fishermen recently shared that he & 2 others were out all night & the bites were few here & there. Then a light rain shower came down. As it did, poles were turning down one by one, just like a big puppet show. They brought in quite a few as the showers continued. It was non-stop action. Then a few minutes later, the shower passed on, but as it did, the poles slowed back down just like previously. A very recent R-n-R lake record Blue hit about 10 minutes after drifting in a wind of 5-7 MPH that had just started. Previously, there was no wind that evening into early morning. However, it was only the 4th Blue to be caught in 13 hours of heavy catfishing (by R-n-Rs). So sometimes you have to persevere and never give up.

Anyway, the Catfish Calendar is presented freely for you to try. If you don't want to, that's fine. It is your choice entirely. However, with anything worthwhile, it may not provide instant feedback as to results. But over time, only then then can you measure it out truthfully.

I try to assist in helping others trying it out. There are some secrets I keep to myself, but that is only if in case I ever run into someone who claims they came up with it first, I have the edge of proof they never knew of. But I will share what I can, plus by others trying it & their feedback, I can add to the research for us all to utilize even more so.

I really appreciate your calender. I use it all the time.

817angler,

Appreciate the positive note. Good to hear it helps. As my former boss said once, "You live by that calendar, don't you?" My reply, "Yep, and will probably die by it". He too was an old YellowCat fisherman using set lines. He doesn't get to go YellowCat fishin' much anymore, so I slip him some from time time. Watching his eyes light up is just like a kid eying a huge chocolate bar or bag of candy. No words can truly describe that look.

But I never stop learning about it & gathering more info towards it

I love the calender. I still owe you a complete report. Been too busy cleaning and bagging fish!

Dave,

Glad to help & that you are hitting that perfect favorite spread of my best eatin' Blue's sizes 5-15 pounders, but up to 18 is OK. Sorry about the cleaning fish though. One of the drawbacks of catching more (sad face with big grin the very next second).

So understood, when you get some rest. Glad you had fun too (before having to clean them). I will look forward to it.

Imagine my surprise this week. Off, so no cleaning fish, Right? Didn't happen that way. Ron caught 10 Gasper Goos last Sunday & brought them iced down for me on Monday. I piddled around, as I had my schedule too full already. I kept them in ice (still whole with guts) all week outside in an ice chest (with a rope around it in case a coon caught the smell). Cleaned them Saturday afternoon. About to go in & shave the meat off the bone. I told my uncle I cleaned 'em, so he can cook some Monday for supper. He agreed.

Funny story, as Ron would catch a Goo, he would comment to his fishin' buddies, "Got me another cookie!". After a few more & same saying, one asked him just what on earth was he talking about. He explained that when he gives us Gasper Goos, Mom makes up cookies for him. Because his wife won't cook sweets because of her diet. I told him the Chocolate Chip Cookie Monster was about to make its appearance in the next week. However, Mom made some up the day I told him (Thursday). So I brought some on Friday. Just ate 3 as I got back on 'puter. Aw man! You can't just eat one.

Gonna go for about an hour or two tomorrow morning. Should the bite be on around 715am ornare they gonna wait for the humidity to drop.

I's BC (BlueCat) for Monday, but you also have a cool front & possible rain & stormy conditions (here it is to hit around 3 AM). I would assume the pressure will drop as it hits. Normal Rod-n-Reelers will head off the lake for storms as they hit. But set lines are still out working & reveal they bit real good as the storm hits (a little ahead, during, and a little afterwards).

The one thing I would worry about is high winds, especially if in a boat. I know they listed a Wind Warning Advisory for Lee county until Noon Monday.

Usually, Cats go wild on feeding as a storm blows in and/or rains. Temperature drop also makes 'em frisky. Here it is to drop 20 degrees, plus wind chill.

Also, BC days are still on the Catfish Calender Tues/Wed/Thurs (1st/2nd/3rd), which reminds me, I need to post the March 2011 calendar.

I'm gonna be bank fishing into a channel. Maybe this wind will keep the damn wake boarders away from the good catfish holes.

Thanks for the reply, I've been using your calendar the past couple weeks and just hammering skillet sized cats.

Here's March 2011---

Lynn's Catfish Calendar- March 2011
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Sunday / Monday / Tuesday / Wednesday / Thursday / Friday / Saturday
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
XXXX | XXXX | 1 BC | 2 BC | 3 BC | 4 BFT | 5 BFT
6 BFT | 7 ZIP | 8 ZIP | 9 BC | 10 BC | 11 ZIP | 12 ZIP
13 YC | 14 YC | 15 ZIP | 16 BC | 17 BFT | 18 BFT | 19 BFT
20 BC | 21 BC | 22 YC | 23 BFT | 24 ZIP | 25 ZIP | 26 ZIP
27 BC | 28 BC | 29 BFT | 30 BFT | 31 BFT |
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Catfish Lynn,
What is your calendar based on? This may have been asked before. Just curious what method was used to determine what species were going to bite or not bite. I do understand weather can change any day to a good or bad day regaurdless of moon phase and such.

Hi Tim,

Sorry I did not see this last night (or actually early this AM).

It is based on a myriad of things. I will try to send you late Wednesday night a copy of my brief intro to the calendar & how I discovered it (or stumbled into it, perhaps led into it), if the PM system allows that big of sidenotes. I shared it (the brief) first with Central Texas Catfish. It was published/printed in the May 2008 issue (28 page magazine/newsletter).

lately I have coined a term which I think suits it best, in order to help others understand to what it truly focuses on. It is what I call a "Roam/Feed" pattern. This helps to identify that the fish are on the roam to feed.

Everything in the physical, mental, and spiritual universes (or aspects) is/are numbered. And there are patterns behind everything, which in a sense, you might say are "sequenced". It is merely a matter of learning to observe & mapping these patterns so that you can eventually find the basic underlying numerical pattern, be it as near to whole numbers as possible to help keep it simple. While the Quantum Theory indicates randomness, perhaps chaos, and the observer affecting the observed, these 3 things are true, but are only at a level of observation say if you drilled only 6 feet into something that is actually 100 feet deep. So you only get a relative view according to the depth from which you drilled. While a 6 feet core specimen may seem to show certain actions, it is merely the surface to much greater depth. Einstein & I realize that God does not (did not & will not) throw dice. Everything is set in its proper place accordingly.

One reason that the Catfish Calendar works so well on set lines, is that the lines (with exception are juglines, if they are very mobile) are exactly that- Set. Most, once set, stay there until you move them. Therefore, for the most part, the Cats have to roam when they feed, in order to find your lines (even if they are drawn by the smell or sound of your bait.

The Catfish Calendar mainly focuse upon Yellows & Blues, as that was/is what I mainly researched/am researching. The Catfish Calendar was discovered by me. I did not create it (the patterns).

Like a mult-faceted diamond, I have only shared the simplest version of explanations concerning it. There are many facets & observations that I have not shared. Two reasons: to keep it simple & because certain things I have kept in reserve, so that if anybody ever wants to try & claim it is their finding, I have proof to show otherwise. I have spent a great deal of time researching the calendar over the years. Time that I could have spent researching many other things.

Time for April already, yet the March winds are still driving us all crazy.

Sorry for delay on my end. Have been working a lot at work & home, so my spare time has been really thin.

Hope you are all doing fine! Or as Best as can be! I guess you realize that gas prices are heading up once again. For some of us, that affects how many fishing trips, as well as how long to run the boat once there. This is one area that the calendar helps in, to get the best volume, as to keying in on when they are biting better. Nowadays, as prices are rising across the board, we all want to stretch our dollar as far as possible. Or in slang, we wish for the best bang from our buck.


If you missed it, the full size 2011 Catfish Calendar is & has been available. Copies are $13 (my cost to get printed is from $12.50 to $13). Obviously I am not out gaining profit, as the gas costs to get them printed surpasses that possible 50 cents variable. For mailing costs, it is $2 each (ranges from $1.50+ to $2.25). You can also order copies of the 2010 Nostalgic Edition. And the first year, the 2009 Collector's Edition is also available. Same price goes for the 2010 & 2009 as you might want to have all 3.

Adam & Casey at OfficeMax's IMPress have been working with me to get together a pocket mini-calender that was affordable (cheap), yet versatile, and not costly to replace if need be. So here is what we came up with. We are getting 4 per full page. So the reduction size is 1/4th (25%), actually I guess 1/8th (12.5%) as that Quarter size uis a foldover with 2 on. We are calling it the "2011 mini-cal". It is set up as a booklet format, meaning that the pages are folded in center. Two staples in the center fold. Folded size is 4" x 2.5" & about 1/16th inch in thickness. They are B/W (no color) with black water resistant ink on gloss coat paper stock. By these two factors, they are more water resistant. However, they are not waterproof. They have the reduced 2011 full calendar cover shot which is 16 photos (in 4 sections of 4 pics). Inside, behind the cover, is the Catfish Calendar KEY. Then from there, the 12 months of just the basic catfish calendar follow. No pic/caption-story pages, nor the 2 page write-up with updates & tips. Just the basics. The inside & outside of the back cover page are blank for notes & such. And there is a clear plastic cover to help preserve it as best as can be. I also had 20 printed without the clear plastic cover & tried it in my pocket at work. After tinkering with them, we will stick with plastic cover, as it help to protect from getting folded pages or corners.

The one catch is that you will have to buy at least one of the full-size 2011 catfish calendar in order to get the 2011 "mini-cal". But once you have acquired (or in the process of ordering it) just one full size calendar, then you can order (in with the full size or later separately) as many of the "mini-cal"'s as you want. Your cost is $1 each, postage is included. You cannot beat that deal. What's the reason for the "mini-cal"? One example is you can take them out on the lake, so you can discuss your next fishing trips with your fishing buddies by having access to the catfish calendar easily out on the water, or at camp, or even at work. This way you don't have to carry around the full size calendar out in the boat & take a chance of it getting wet. But you can take it in the truck or car to show it off. If you by chance get the "mini-cal" soaked, it's only a $1 to replace, even by mail, so I think we really did good due to budget crunches nowadays.

****Please note that further clarification on purchasing the full size & the "mini-cal" calendars is about 3 posts following this one- see #6036721 dated 4-6-11.****

Since we were already planning to be at RB on Lake Limestone for the CTC April 16th Tourney (which has been cancelled), and I have a big fish fry the following Friday PM (22nd), I decided to still fish that weekend (16th/17th). But instead of arriving Friday night (4-15), it will be Saturday morning (16th) instead. We will rebait & redate all lines (including the big water). Finally!!! Run them again Saturday PM, spend the night & hit it again Sunday AM (17th). 15th-BFT/ 16th- BC/ 17th- BC. My reasoning is simple. Of course it is a 2 day BC run. The other is that instead of pulling frozen fish out of the freezer, having to thaw them out, & get them ready for the fish fry, it would be much easier to use fresh fish I am processing. This will cut out a lot of steps & save me a great deal of time (& sleep).

Looking ahead into May ...
Since the MD Trip (Memorial Day) seems to a flop fishing-wise as to the calendar (Fri 27th- YC/ Sat 28th- ZIP/ Sun 29th- ZIP/ Mon 30th- ZIP), our plans are to take an early MD 3 day Trip, a new twist. In other words, I am opting for us to go the weekend before. It works out with the catfish calendar much better & just think, less traffic as to others on the main lake. What's the weekend before look like? Fri 20th- BC/ Sat 21st- BC/ Sun 22nd- BC / Mon 23rd-BFT. We will also pull the Big Water lines that Monday AM to get them off the main lake before thermocline gets really active. And beat the crowded holiday weekend, especially since that Monday is not a weekend day or a holiday. This is one way the calendar helps you to map out the best possible times.

Wishin' You the Best!
Be safe with all this wind!
Lynn
aka "Catfish"


April 2011 Catfish Calendar follows this post

And here's April ...

Lynn’s Catfish Calendar- April 2011
Sunday / Monday / Tuesday / Wednesday / Thursday / Friday / Saturday
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
-----------------------------------------------------------+| 1 BFT | 2 BFT
3 ZIP | 4 ZIP | 5 ZIP | 6 BC | 7 ZIP | 8 ZIP | 9 YC
10 YC | 11 ZIP | 12 ZIP | 13 ZIP | 14 BFT | 15 BFT | 16 BC
17 BC | 18 YC | 19 YC | 20 YC | 21 ZIP | 22 ZIP | 23 BC
24 BC | 25 BC | 26 BFT | 27 BFT. | 28 YC | 29 YC | 30 ZIP
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Here is the link to my August 7th, 2010 TFF thread which has my May 2008 Catfish Calendar article concerning Lynn's Catfish Calendar:

<http://texasfishingforum.com/forums/ubbthreads.php/topics/5176857/1>

Go down to posts/messages 6th, 7th, and 9th on page 1 there as to the brief article as to the Catfish Calendar (split into 3 portions due to size).

The article does not tell you everything, but here & there over time, I reveal a few other secrets of the calendar. I do not share everything, because I have not copyrighted it or anything to protect it legal-wise. But I keep enough in reserve to prove I am the original catfish calendar dude, should anybody ever try to claim they are.

My KEY is listed in the 3rd post of page 1 of this link also. As to my note for Rod-n-Reelers to use the Solunar Tables to assist as it is not the same as having set lines out 24/7, some swear by them, others swear at them.

Also the question has been raised as to ZIP days. Somewhere in this 2010 link or the new 2011 thread (you are in it at the moment), is a post or 2 that helps you understand that ZIP days are not the end of the world if you are stuck on fishing one of those days, as not all catfish follow this basic pattern. Some are, or run, rogue, meaning they follow an alternate pattern. But your percentages or volume will go down, unless of course you are Rod-n-Reeling on a school of rogue cats.

Channels & Bullheads I honestly have not researched, but it seems BFT (Buffet days) is when the Channels bite the best as to my results with set lines. My focus has been on Yellows & Blues.

3 ways to get the Catfish Calendar:
1) I post a month every month here on TFF. I try to post a day or 2 ahead, but don't always get too. FREE
2) You can get on my Catfish Calendar Crew by email & get the calendar by Quarters. FREE
3) You can buy the printed full year calendar for $13 (my cost rounded up to the next dollar) + $2 postage

I'll have to scan over my previous post as to the "mini-cals" & such, in case I made errors in wording. Meanwhile to clarify it better, here goes---

Clarification:

It is $13 per EACH full size printed calendar (2011 currently). It costs me at least $12.58 with taxes to get them printed. I rounded up to the next dollar just in case any of the paper or service costs go up, so I don't lose my shirt.

$2 is for postage on EACH full size calendar (which ranges from $1.50+ to $2.50 or more on my end). I eat the cost of the brown clasp envelope & usually pack it in bubble wrap so the element does not get squished or broken.

As for the "mini-cals", they are $1 EACH (postage included for EACH one). Since we added the plastic cover, I forget how much they were costing with taxes, so I hope I'm not losing my shirt in that one. But you must buy at least 1 of the full size calendars for that given year (2011 currently) 1st. See note a few paragraphs down.

The "mini-cal" is a reduced & stripped version of the full size calendar. None of it is in color, just in black water-resistant ink (but not waterproof). The pages are gloss coat which resists moisture more than regular paper. Size folded is 4"W x 2.5"H. It has the cover shot (pic/pics), Key is on the inside cover, then the basic 12 month catfish calendars & 2 blank pages that you can add notes if need be, along with a plastic cover. It is in a folded format with 2 staples. It is Designed to go easily into even a tight shirt pocket. Intention or purpose is to have very portable access to the catfish calendar while at work, on the road, while fishing, and so on. If you are out with the fishing buddies, you can all plan a good trip by having the calendar info right there. Or heck, plan one yourself while fishing when they slack off biting.

The full size version is 11"W x 8.5"H consists of: Color Pic/Pics Cover/ Inside 2 page write-up with updates, tips & Key/ Each calendar month features 2 pages- lower one is B/W catfish calendar, top page is color pic/pics with captions & stories pertaining to it. June is the advertising & information page, sometimes with a pic from the Central Texas Catfish Youth Tournament (was in 2009 & 2010). It has a clear plastic front outer cover, thick black back cover & is plastic wirebound for easy opening & flipping back & forth. I forget if they are currently drilling a hole for wall hanging. Probably not, but did back in 2009. 2011 monthly pics & stories feature a few from the TFF, a father-son team (two of my YellowCat & Calendar students), my Uncle, and of course some of me.

My minimum requirement is that you get at least 1 full-size calendar (for the year, 2011 in this case), then you can buy as many of the mini-cals as you want. And if you buy 1 full size calendar at any time (say you already bought one) & decide later you want 1 or however many (or more) of the mini-cals, no problem, as you already fulfilled the requirement for that year.

This is the 3rd year (2011) of the printed full size editions. You can get the previous years (2009 & 2010) for collectibles, keepsakes, or for whatever reason. They are the same price $13 + $2 for postage. I don't see the need for the mini-cals of the previous years, since its purpose is primarily the current catfish calendar & to plan trips & such. The full size, for the past 2 years for reasons mention, as well as the pics & stories of each month, as well as the two page write-up.

Hope that clarifies any confusion.

Check or Money order can be sent to me at my snail mail:
H. Lynn Herrmann
20136 FM 974
Bryan, TX 77808-8700

Also, if you order any of the printed items, give me a heads up, so I'll be watching the snail mail, either by TFF PM or my E-dress: <hlynnh@peoplepc.com>

Here's your May 2011 Catfish Calendar:

Lynn’s Catfish Calendar- May 2011
Sunday / Monday / Tuesday / Wednesday / Thursday / Friday / Saturday
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1 ZIP | 2 ZIP | 3 ZIP | 4 ZIP | 5 ZIP | 6 ZIP | 7 YC
8 YC | 9 ZIP | 10 ZIP | 11 BC | 12 BC | 13 ZIP | 14 BC
15 BC | 16 YC | 17 YC | 18 BC | 19 BC | 20 BC | 21 BC
22 BC | 23 BFT | 24 BFT | 25 BFT | 26 YC | 27 YC | 28 ZIP
29 ZIP | 30 ZIP | 31 ZIP |


Reposting the KEY:

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Lynn’s Catfish Calendar- KEY:
YC = YellowCat // BC = BlueCat // BFT = Buffet (assorted) // ZIP = Zip (not very good)
Tip- Always bait out lines the night before a YC or BC day.
Tip- Gator Gars run ahead of YellowCats, so bait out late (between 11 PM to 1 AM).
Tip- BlueCats also bite good on YC days, but you can rack ‘em up on BC days.
Tip- Some variations or alterations are due to weather or other external influences.
Tip- For Rod-n-Reelers, use Solunar Tables (etc.) also for best times with my calendar.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

As to the thread on Flathead Trails, if you are running set lines or Rod-N-Reel, the YC days/nights are what I when I would target them on, as well as if you are on the Flathead Fishoff (but only rod-n-reel can be used for that contest).

NOTE that Wednesday the 25th (BFT) seems to be a hidden YC day of the 3 day run.

Here's your Moon phases, so this weekend of the 7th/8th (Sat/Sun) will be fairly good darker window (prime), as was Thurs/Fri (April 28th/29th).

May 2011 (all fall on a Tuesday):
3rd- New Moon
10th- 1st Qtr.
17th- Full Moon
24th- Last Qtr.

Looking forward to the week end! We've been getting there around 8-9 and always tend to be a gar bite when we get there. Then pick up a few smaller kitties blue or channel. Then about 10:30pm-1:30am is when all of our yellas hit. I like watching it add up to all the info I've ubtained from you and a few others.

Sigh! And I've got to work, but hopin' to at least get to the lake Sunday AM & cruise to get some of that energy.

Wishin' You both the best in your "find". Tear 'em up. Also, sometimes the huger ones tend to drift just off their path sometimes. Maybe its like some sort of pinball thing with them. Jeff & James have run into this sort of thing every now & then. I know when I shoot pool, it is just no fun shooting them straight in, so a friend & I used to do some fancy squirrel shootin'.

But anyway, stick or concentrate to the main area you hit paydirt in, then expand around to see if you can pick up more. Mark your memory & jot it down in a notebook. You will never regret it. It helps tremendously.

Getting ready for some catfishing this weekend at Somerville!! Lot of small ones last Sunday and a few keepers, let see what happens this weekend.

This weekend is YC. That means the Yellows will be on their "roam/feed" run. The Blues also bite pretty good on the YC days. But you can rack up the Blues on the BC days.

One guide that fishes Somerville noted that it is mainly a CC (ChannelCat) lake, as compared to Blues. If not mistaken. The catfish calendar is mainly focused on Yellows & Blues, as that is what I targeted in my research.

However, I have found that the Channels seem to be more plentiful on the BFT (Buffet) days. At least for me.

But let me know, so I can get a little data on Channels, as to YC & BC days, as well as the baits & methods used.

I fish currently out of Lake Limestone & the 2nd bridge of the Navasota River on TX 21. Hope later this year to soon get back out to Trinity River below TX 21 (20 to 25 bends down).

Yeah I wanna try a day out at Gibbons using the calendar, I might just have to head there also!

Almost forgot, as I'll be working late the next 3 nights. Here is your June Catfish Calendar:

Lynn’s Catfish Calendar- June 2011
Sunday / Monday / Tuesday / Wednesday / Thursday / Friday / Saturday
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX | 1 ZIP | 2 ZIP | 3 BFT | 4 YC
5 ZIP | 6 ZIP | 7 BC | 8 BC | 9 ZIP | 10 ZIP | 11 ZIP
12 YC | 13 YC | 14 BC | 15 BC | 16 BC | 17 BFT | 18 BFT
19 BFT | 20 BFT | 21 BFT | 22 YC | 23 YC | 24 ZIP | 25 ZIP
26 BC | 27 BC | 28 ZIP | 29 ZIP | 30 BFT |
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++


Your Moon phases for June:
1st Wed New Moon
8th Wed 1st Qtr
15th Wed Full Moon
23rd Thurs Last Qtr.

As we get to summer, you have to know how to key in on the basic YellowCat pattern which is sometimes hidden or expanded. Sometimes the YC patterns overlap & are hidden under BFT (Buffet days). When you hit expanded YC days, as we will in July, there is the wide range & there is the standard range, you merely have to apply the 7, 2 on, 7, 2 on, 7, 3 on & repeat to find the standard range (which is the best target or wjhat one might refer to as "prime".

For instance, I would say from the evening of the 2nd thru mid-morning of the 5th would be your best target range with the 4th being the best shot. Next is 11th evening thru mid morning of 14th. Then target range of evening of the 20th thru mid morning of 24th. Last is really hidden, but should be from evening of 29th thru mid morning of July 2nd.

Also, don't forget that Central Texas Catfish is holding their annual Youth Catfish Tournament at Lake Limestone on Saturday June 18th. See the CTC website for more details at <http://www.centraltexascatfish.com> It's a BFT (Buffet day), so you just never know what might be caught.

Sorry for running late due to work, loss of sleep & such. Getting ready for family gathering here Sunday evening. I will be preoccupied running about 4 grills (2 roasts- beef & pork sealed with onions/ Bar-B-Q chicken/ Skewers of meats & veggies, including shrimp) & 2 ice cream makers (Big Red/ Vanilla, while my Uncle [JW] will making 2 as well- another vanilla & chocolate). Plus he's making pecan pie & pear cobbler. Hope everyone has a safe Independence Day weekend, wherever you are!!!

Here is your July Catfish Calendar for 2011. Back up in this thread for the Calendar Key if needed.

Lynn’s Catfish Calendar- July 2011
Sunday / Monday / Tuesday / Wednesday / Thursday / Friday / Saturday
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX| 1 BFT | 2 ZIP
3 ZIP | 4 BC | 5 BC | 6 BC | 7 ZIP | 8 ZIP | 9 BFT
10 BFT | 11 BFT | 12 BC | 13 BC | 14 BFT | 15 BFT | 16 BFT
17 YC | 18 YC | 19 YC | 20 YC | 21 ZIP | 22 ZIP | 23 ZIP
24 BC | 25 BC | 26 ZIP | 27 ZIP | 28 BFT | 29 BFT | 30 ZIP
31 ZIP |
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

And as I mentioned over in the Flathead Contest thread:
Listed below are the Hidden (& Apparent) YellowCat (YC) days, as to their basic pattern. The summer is usually in a flux, with overlaps & adjustments, just like our year is not an actual 365 days, but 365 1/4 & we have to adjust it to get it back to almost exact. While you may have more YC days listed, these should be your prime ones. If BFT, then they are hidden YC days for sure.

Basic/Hidden YC days (one major adjustment will run from Sept.29th-October 1st):
July 2011- 30(June)/1; 9/10; 18/19/20; 28/29

If you notice, the Catfish Calendar only lists one run of 4 days from 17th thru 20th. BFT (or Buffet) days are a tad stronger, so a YC day lies hidden in the mist. By knowing the basic pattern, you can pinpoint those hidden ones, as well as the laps & adjustments. In a cluster of YC, that is more than the standard 2 or 3 for that particular cycle, the basic will be the prime or the best of those. Perhaps it is the spawn time or after it, that lengthens the cluster over its norm.

If you are on my email group, you got the 3rd Quarter (July/August/September) & those 3 months of the basic pattern sent to you earlier.

Remember, they are your prime target time running from the evening before into the following day up to 10 AM or Noon. When it has more YC days than the basic 2 or 3, it is like icing on the cake.

I wish you all the Best of YellowCat hunting for this last month of the contest! If you do catch one or more on the 4 day cluster or the basic prime days above, be sure to email me your good news & a pic or so. I'm at <hlynnh@peoplepc.com>

Oh yeah, might as well note the Moon phases for July:
1st Fri New Moon
8th Fri 1st Qtr
15th Fri Full Moon
23rd Sat Last Qtr.
30th Sat New Moon

Another note: I'm thinking of setting up a flat full year calendar which is ideal for home & work. Plus you can see everything to plan ahead. Will let you know when I get it set up. Adam is gone for the summer, so I will have to get Casey to set it up.

Whew!

If you are still up to frying (in this heat), and I'm not talking about the fish, here's your August Catfish Calendar with a few extra notes.

Lynn’s Catfish Calendar- August 2011
Sunday / Monday / Tuesday / Wednesday / Thursday / Friday / Saturday
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXXXX | 1 ZIP | 2 BC | 3 ZIP | 4 ZIP | 5 BFT | 6 BFT
7 BFT | 8 ZIP | 9 ZIP | 10 BFT | 11 BFT | 12 BFT | 13 YC
14 YC | 15 YC | 16 YC | 17 YC | 18 ZIP | 19 ZIP | 20 BC
21 BC | 22 ZIP | 23 ZIP | 24 YC | 25 YC | 26 ZIP | 27 ZIP
28 ZIP | 29 ZIP | 30 ZIP | 31 ZIP |
===================================================


August 2011 Moon phases:
*New Moon- July 30th Sat
1st Qtr- 6th Sat
Full Moon- 13th Sat
Last Qtr- 21st Sun
New Moon- 28th Sun

Hidden Basic YC (YellowCat) Pattern Days (7/2/7/2/7/3 & repeat):
[the Catfish Calendar lists the strongest day accordingly]
5th/6th (Fri/Sat)
14th/15th/16th (Sun/Mon/Tues)
24th/25th (Wed/Thurs)
*September 2nd/3rd (Fri/Sat)

Anybody that needs the KEY to the Calendar, back up until you find it in this thread.

Be safe, careful, and of course stay hydrated!

On another note, I will be trying to put together the 12 month wall (poster) 2011 calendar in the next 30 days to make it easy to see all in one big space without having to flip back & forth. It won't have the pics & caption stories, nor the 2 page update & tips pages. But might include the basic YC pattern days for 2011.

I'll be scarce for a bit, but nearby, as I need to get back on some other research.

Catfish Lynn. Look forward to your post, and information Sir.
What bait do you feel is the optium for this week. Targeting Yellows and "medium" size Blues. Depth, 8ft. Goldfish? Cut-Perch?
Thank you.

Are you rod-n-reeling or running set lines (& if so, what kind)?

For rod-n-reeling in this heat or at nights, best to post a thread asking rod-n-reelers who are currently out there in the heat or during the night.

With the lakes very low, thermocline active, then topping off with water that may seem to boil the fish, all 3 of these change some of the normal rules.

If you are running juglines or rod-n-reeling, and want larger blues, the thermocline supposedly runs mid-level to bottom. The Bigger Blues will suspend themselves just above the mid-level & goldfish may be prime. Some of the rod-n-reelers (here on TFF) currently are noting the levels they are having luck in, as well as some of the conditions, time of day, and the bait they are using.

Stink baits really expand in the summertime, so you want to make sure you keep it concentrated to help them find your hook. If you spread the smell out too much, they may be running circles trying to find the "diner" (your hook). Of course, I'm not a rod-n-reeler.

While many swear on shad, I've never had any luck with them, dead or alive, or cut. At least that I recall.

I know several who hit paydirt using cut perch, and so on. Sadly it does not work for me. Maybe now that it is from 101 to 105 may make a difference.

Live perch are prime for me, as to Yellows. Yellows are very methodical & territorial. Picking them out in the open lake is tougher than finding them in the shallows or on the river. They tend to hang around stumps, logs, and obstructions. Why? Because they use that blind spot to their advantage of an ambush, or a surprising vaccuum "big gulp". Surprisingly, a medium to fair size perch will still be on the menu for a 60 pounder, as well as a 6 pounder. Even Blues for that matter.

However, timing is everything. I have found, as to set lines, Yellows tend to "turn on" between around 11 PM thru 3 AM as to close to a New Moon, and they seem to run later on into daylight closer to a Full Moon. Find a stump or timber area, look for a big one on your scope, then try to put dinner on its table. But be ready to get it away from tangling in the timber. As to depth of the area, it could be 6 feet to 15 feet. The scope will show you where the big one is lurking (the depth).

The last few times we went, the golds seem to be doing better than the perch, as to Blues. Even 1 to 3 pound channels were chomping them down.

If the Yellows are still not going for the perch, try what Tiny suggested. Rough 'em up a bit by raking a few scales off each side to mimic a wounded fish.

Hope this helps somewhat. Like I say, ask some of the rod-n-reelers currently fishing in this extreme weather, as to the depths & baits that are producing.

Catfish Lynn,

I was out at Gibbons on July 29th, and last Thursday and Friday, the 4th and 5th. Took my dad out on the 29th, and went home with 10 fish. We were on the water by 6 am and tried in 18ft of water near a buoy by the intake, and by some rocks near the spillway in 10-12 ft of water, and caught no fish. We then tried around some stump cover in 13-14 feet of water, and found a sweet little hole. It is holding a lot of fish. That day we caught them on CJ's punch bait, with tight lines on the bottom.

We returned on the 4th, and we kept 14. Caught about 25 total. Some were marginal on size and we let them go. We like to keep fish around 14" and up. We got on the water around 5:45. Before leaving the ramp we caught plenty of shad, all around 2-3 inches. I also bought some chicken livers and had several cans of Cj's and one can of Sonny's stink bait. We motored right over to that same spot, tied up, and started fishing. The bite was slow for about 45 minutes, but at 6:30, the fish found us and it was non stop action for an hour and a half. We missed our fair share of bites, as many of the bites were strange. We were on the bottom or a few inches off, and the lines would start moving far to the left or right. Some fish were foul hooked, but still made it into the boat. The most interesting thing about that day, is the fish bit on everything. Livers, shad, Cj's and Sonny's. The bite began to slow around 9, but we caught a few more until 10:30, then headed home.

I returned bright and early the next morning, taking a buddy who is a CSPD officer. He was off duty at 4 am and I picked him up at 5:00. We were in the water at 5:40 with plenty of shad and perch, CJ's punch bait, chicken livers, and some Sonny's. Again we visited the same location. The morning before, my dad and I baited the hole with dog food. We usually use soured bird seed, but did not have any made up, and dog food was an easy option. I'm not sure whether or not it ruined the fishing, or if it was just the luck of fishing, but we only took 6 fish home. They were good sized channels, and there was one blue. The wind picked up pretty early which made the fishing less enjoyable. Soon, the lake was white capping, so we decided to leave the spot and motor around the lake looking for different locations with similar depths and structure, but didn't find anything to our liking. I hope to return this week, and will report back with results.

Also, one more detail. The water temperature according to my Humminbird was around 86 degrees in our spot. Other spots we tried were closer 90 degrees or more.

Sounds like you found a cooler spot. I'm sure the fish must like that too in this heat. With this extreme heat, just like humans, it will alter their normal patterns somewhat. The Catfish Calendar focuses mainly on Blues & Yellows, and Gator Gars just happened to be found in the research. I did not really focus on Channels or MudCats as well. However, a few have found some patterns into Crappie as well, but that's still in early stages.

I've even had the Crappie fishermen/women at Lake Limestone around RB Marina ask me what the calendar shows before, during, or after their fishing runs. Definitely the ZIP days fell accordingly on the Crappie as their haul's qwikly were reduced dramatically. Like Ron (my boss) said once, you could not buy any Crappie (meaning they just would not bite or I should say get caught period, regardless.


I have found that I seem to catch more Channels on BFT (Buffet) days. Sometimes BFT days overrun & hide the true YC (YellowCat) pattern of 7/2/7/2/7/3 & repeat (the 2-2-3 being the "roam-feed" days/nights).

I have also been watching several on the Forum who share what bait they have been using & see that some are having really good bites/catches using CJs & other stink baits and overcoming the worse days. While I recognize that rod-n-reeling does not focus on a full 24 hour schedule as a set line will or might, it seems that the biggest twist is towards the Channels. Also on ZIP days, you may tend to find a few record size Cats (like Blues). I feel that these are some of the rogue ones who do not follow the norm. In a sense, it may be why they got so big. A general estimate is that 66% to 75% of Blues & Yellows follow the pattern, while 25% to 33% do not. Just like people in a sense, not all run the same feeding & working habits (or times)

Appreciate the input. Sounds like you are doing great & off to a great start, as it seems you are keeping good records of conditions, fish caught, baits used, temperatures, and specific places. By keying in on previous experiences & conditions, you are establishing a recognizable pattern, which will help time & time again in the days ahead. Focus on those & other items & the calendar, means you will increase your catches & streamline as to specifics (such as target size & types).

I have only been to Gibbons 2 or 3 times and that was some 30 years back. Wow, seems to like only a few years ago.

Rod-n-reeling according to the Calendar has advantages, as well as disadvantages, over set lines. Different baits can do the same. But any who use it, as they learn to incorporate it either way, will find they can increase their volume. And keeping records of your outings is a WIN-WIN.

There are some really big Blues & Yellows in Gibbons. Ron hooked one big one about 2 years back & fought for 1.5 hours until it decided enough was enough, turned away & never stopped, eventually snapping the line on his Crappie setup. From his description, I would say it was a big Yellow.

Wishin' You the Best!

Of course lower water levels alter many things as well.

This past week I have found out that no public or Marina (RB or LL) ramps are workable due to the extreme low lake level at Lake Limestone. You might be able to carry a jon boat or Porta-Bote down or out into the waters at or near a ramp, then your motor. Other than that, you would have to have a boat hanging in a boat house that could still find water lowering it, if it will lower an extra 5+ feet that normal.

If worse comes to worse, I can always set-up (fold out & put seats & such in) my sister's Porta-Bote, add the clip on dolly wheels, and motor. Then easily wheel it down to the water's edge. Might take off the wheels just so I don't lose them. The Porta-Bote is extremely light & with the Johnson 3.5 HP & only one person, it will go fairly faster than you can imagine.

I hope to make a run up to RB this coming weekend, take some pics there, might go up to the bridge on the NW end & take some pics of the public ramp there, then come down to the dam on the SW end & go by and say hi to one of the Lake Rangers (Limestone has 2) & get the latest info about any possible access for bigger boats, plus pics from there at the SW public ramp by the BRA office.

Almost forgot. Adam at IMPress (OfficeMax) is making up the prototype of the 2011 Wall Calendar (shows the cover pic shot & the 12 numerical calendar months). So we will see Monday just what it will look like in B/W. But it will help for showing all 12 months together for easier mapping out trips.

I've been fishing Gibbons ever since I was a little kid. Of course now I'm only 19 and a Sophomore at A&M. But for the majority of my years fishing Gibbons, I was banking it on the dam. Then my dad bought a boat, but he bought a VIP fish n ski, and it was nothing more that a pain. My dad was very picky about it, and never wanted to hurt the hull or get the carpet too dirty, but to his defense, he sold the boat for $500 more than he paid 5 years earlier. The point being, we never really got into the fish in that boat like we did on the bank. And we always spent more time cleaning the boat then we did fishing out of it. Also, back when I was young, the lake was fishing only. No recreational boating. So there were never any skiers, or wake boarders. But, they changed that a few years back and for our last year or two of bank fishing, we had skiers going up and down the dam tearing up the water and causing wake to break on the dam and soak us. The biggest we ever pulled out of the water there was a 26 lb yellow cat.

After dad sold the boat, and didn't want to buy an all aluminum boat like I suggested. So I took it upon myself to get back in the water. Picked up a little 1979 lowe line 16' v bottom with a 1979 Mercury 40hp in horrible condition, on a trailer for $200 bucks. After 6 months of work and ~$600 in materials and parts, I'm out at the lake several days each week. Dad is also jealous of the boat because my old Merc starts faster and runs better than his 90's model Mariner 115 ever did.

I plan on continuing to keep record of my catch and all the aspects of that day, and match it up closely with your calendar to develop a pattern for Gibbons. It is my lake of choice for this area, because I know it so well and it always produces fish.

I have visited Limestone once, about 2 years ago. Fished in kayaks at one of the county parks and did very well at the stumps about 200 yards from the bank on Danny Kings. Then bank fished all night and went home with nearly 30 fish. Would love to go back in my boat when the lake gets enough water in it to launch.

Also heard that Somerville has closed down all their ramps. Praying for rain.

I think it is any day now that Somerville was to be their record low. Rats! I just knew I snipped that bit, but can't seem to find it now. It was either in 1984 or 1994. The article note that at the rate it was dropping, it would match or be below the previous record low in 10 days.

Very good! Keep records, observe & record, and you will excel.

Interesting that they have allowed skiers on Gibbons, but no set lines. I recall back in the 70s, I think they allowed juglines for a bit.

In this heat, I am sure night fishing would be great.

Well, we are still experimenting on the simple Wall catfish calendar. We tried a 24x36, then an 18x24, both in B/W, as color increases the price by several warp zones. However, the numerical monthly calendars come out very light. If we darken them up, then the Calendar cover (from the full size original style) 16 pic/4 quadrant spread will blur or blob out/up. We may have to do it in a double run. I use to work in printing, but offset is totally different from the new digital. But I've been known to surprise a few in possible options to overcome hurdles regardless if in printing or other fields. I am not as familiar with PDF & we might be able to make the 12 months "bold"er to remedy the problem. Adam at OfficeMax's IMPress here in the B-CS area is an amazing digital tech & even his superiors sometimes pass off stuff for him, as he can run circles around the rest (or leave them in the dust at the starting line). I told him the other day to think of it as job security.

Here is your September 2011 Catfish Calendar

Lynn’s Catfish Calendar- September 2011
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Sunday / Monday / Tuesday / Wednesday / Thursday / Friday / Saturday
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx| 1 ZIP | 2 BFT | 3 BFT
4 ZIP | 5 ZIP | 6 ZIP | 7 BC | 8 BC | 9 YC | 10 YC
11 YC | 12 YC | 13 YC | 14 BC | 15 BC | 16 BC | 17 BC
18 ZIP | 19 ZIP | 20 YC | 21 YC | 22 YC | 23 ZIP | 24 ZIP
25 ZIP | 26 ZIP | 27 ZIP | 28 ZIP | 29 BC | 30 BFT |
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Your September 2011 Moon phases:
*New Moon- August 28th Sun
1st Qtr- 4th Sun
Full Moon- 12th Mon
Last Qtr- 20th Tues
New Moon- 27th Tues

Hidden Basic YC (YellowCat) Pattern Days (7/2/7/2/7/3 & repeat):
[the Catfish Calendar lists the strongest day accordingly]
2nd/3rd (Fri/Sat)
11th/12/13th (Sun/Mon/Tues)
21st/22nd (Wed/Thurs)
30th/Oct 1st (Fri/Sat)

For the basic KEY to the Calendar, just back up until you find it in this thread.

Remember, for most, new licenses or new fines may apply. It is cheaper by the license (or I should say to "buy" it).

Several record catches here in the BCS (Bryan-College Station) area. Hmm, not speaking of catfish, but the heat here in Aggieland---
+++++++
Wednesday's (8-31-11) high of 101° means that 2011 is now tied with 1917 for the most number of days over 100°, and this year could be alone at the top of the list after Thursday (9-1-11).

Furthermore, August 2011 will go down as not only the warmest August on record, but also the warmest of any month on record in the Brazos Valley.
+++++++

Sorry for being so late,

Have been doing other research which has been consuming a lot of my off-season catfishing time, when not working or sleeping. I have all of the data for mapping out the 2012 Catfish Calendar as well, just have had no time yet.

Once again, if you got a good pic or so of a good one or good mess of Cats, if you want to be in the 2012 Calendar, then email me at <hlynnh@peoplepc.com> as there is still time to get you in.

Methinks we might be takin' a scoutin' trip up to Limestone in the next 2 to 3 weeks, just to see what we will be dealing with, as to low level. Before the rain today, Limestone was between 9.01 & 9.06' low. BRA just issued Stage 2 Drought Warnings as it just dropped below 354' (above sea level) pool level later this past week.

We will probably take my sister's 12' Porta-Bote with a Johnson 3.5 HP motor, as well as rig up the Cuda 300 depth & fishfinder. Much lighter & easier to drop in for scouting our fishing spots. I want to get over to the "Giant's" running area so I can see if it is all visible to know its path, so we will have a better shot once the water gets back up. At 9' low, that means the average 13' at the No Wake Zone exit coming out of RB, is only 4' deep. Still hard to fathom or digest.

Anyway, here's your October 2011 Catfish Calendar:

Lynn’s Catfish Calendar- October 2011
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Sunday / Monday / Tuesday / Wednesday / Thursday / Friday / Saturday
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX | 1 ZIP
2 ZIP | 3 ZIP | 4 BC | 5 BC | 6 BC | 7 BFT | 8 YC
9 YC | 10 YC | 11 BC | 12 BC | 13 BFT | 14 BFT | 15 BC
16 ZIP | 17 ZIP | 18 YC | 19 YC | 20 ZIP | 21 ZIP | 22 BC
23 BC | 24 ZIP | 25 ZIP | 26 BC | 27 BC | 28 BC | 29 ZIP
30 ZIP | 31 BC |
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++


All YC days listed are correct, none hidden as to the ones ahead for the rest of October. However September 30th (BFT) & October 1st (ZIP) were hidden. But if you will notice, there is an overlap as to the 1st with the 8th of the next run. This occurs from time to time as our yearly 365 calendar days are not perfect & requires an adjustment every 4 years. The 7/2/7/2/7/3 & repeat is as close to perfect, but also requires adjustments as well. In November, there will be another overlap as to the 7th & 14th. And yet once again in December as the 4th & 11th also do the same.

And looking at your October Moon phases:
1st Qtr- 3rd Mon
Full Moon- 11th Tues
Last Qtr- 19th Wed
New Moon- 26th Tues

Well, Lots o' luck & Good Fishing!
And let's hope the cooler weather steadies out somewhat!

Running behind here,

Your November 2011 Catfish Calendar ...

Lynn’s Catfish Calendar- November 2011
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Sunday / Monday / Tuesday / Wednesday / Thursday / Friday / Saturday
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXXX/ XXXX/| 1 BC | 2 BC | 3 BFT | 4 BFT | 5 YC
6 YC | 7 YC | 8 BC | 9 BC | 10 BFT | 11 BFT | 12 BC
13 BC | 14 YC | 15 YC | 16 ZIP | 17 ZIP | 18 BC | 19 BC
20 ZIP | 21 ZIP | 22 ZIP | 23 BC | 24 BC | 25 ZIP | 26 ZIP
27 ZIP | 28 BC | 29 BC | 30 BFT |


Listing the YC days true underlying pattern- 7/2/7/2/7/3 & repeat is as close to perfect. In November, there is another overlap as to the 7th & 14th. And yet once again in December as the 4th & 11th also do the same. November listings are: 5/6/7, then 14/15 and finally 23/24.

And looking at your November Moon phases:
1st Qtr- Wed 2nd
Full Moon- Thurs 10th
Last Qtr- Fri 18th
New Moon- Fri 25th

I am hoping we can break away to go scout Limestone on Sunday, to see what is left of RB fork where we normally have lines in the No Wake Zone, Near Corner & Far Corner, as well as the big water above dam. Itought to be interesting at 9.5' low or more. Plan to take pics. If the area of "the Giant" is above water level, I plan to mark the trail & take a pic to remember when lake fills back in. That way I will knows its actual path, even though I think I have it narrowed down. Then I will have to second guess where it has moved to.

My apologies, running behind. Have been partially sick the past few weeks. Feeling better this afternoon. T-Day Trip was definitely not the "Freezer Run" this year. Due to high winds the past few weekends ahead, we were unable to scout the 10 foot low lake level, as well as set lines out the weekend before. Nothing like rolling the boat down about a 1/4 mile to water as well as tote gear in quite a few trips. I had hoped to get some exercise. I got more than I planned for, that includes the fiasco of me falling backwards out of my sister's 12' Porta-Bote. A tidbit more of that is on the thread titled "Flathead Activity".

Anyways, here is your December 2011 calendar. Scroll back in this thread for the KEY, in case you don't know it. In addition to being under the weather the past few weeks, I'm trying to finish up some other research, then there's that required thing we call work (you know, for a paycheck). Also at the end of this month's calendar (dopwn below), is the link to the 2010 thread which has some of the story behind the catfish calendar, in case you missed it.


Lynn's Catfish Calendar- December 2011
--------------------------------------
Sunday / Monday / Tuesday / Wednesday / Thursday / Friday / Saturday
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
XXXX | XXXX | XXXX | XXXX | 1 BFT | 2 BFT | 3 YC
4 YC | 5 ZIP | 6 ZIP | 7 BFT | 8 BFT | 9 BC | 10 BC
11 YC | 12 YC | 13 BC | 14 ZIP | 15 BC | 16 BC | 17 BC
18 ZIP | 19 ZIP | 20 BFT | 21 BFT | 22 ZIP | 23 ZIP | 24 ZIP
25 ZIP | 26 ZIP | 27 BFT | 28 BFT | 29 BFT | 30 YC | 31 YC
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++


As for your December Moon phases:
1st Qtr 2nd Fri.
Full Moon 10th Sat.
Last Qtr 17th Sat.
ALSO--- Winter begins on the 22nd
New Moon 24th Sat.

As for YC (YellowCat) Hidden Days (according to the 7/2/7/2/7/3 pattern):
Note once again, a blend or splicing up in the first half of the month.
2/3/4 (Fri/Sat/Sun)
11/12 (Sun/Mon)
20/21 (Tues/Wed)
29/30/31 (Thurs/Fri/Sat)

And the link for the 2010 thread in case you did not read the story behind the Catfish Calendar:
<http://texasfishingforum.com/forums/ubbthreads.php/topics/5176857/1>

2012 will be the 4th year for the printed calendar, the 2nd for the Mini-Cal, and the 1st for the simple wall calendar (we experimented with 2011, but did not quite get where I was hoping for).

Also, 2009/2010/2011 Catfish Calendars (Collector items as they are numbered) are still available. Adam at OfficeMax's IMPress here has set it all up on their computer so we can always print more. Adam is Numero Uno in the tech department.

I already have 2012 mapped out, but have not set it up in the RTF format for those on the Calendar Crew (they get them emailed every 3 months from me along with an update in the research). Then there is the actual printed calendar set-up. If you have some pics or a pic & want to be in it, write me at <hlynnh@peoplepc.com>. There is still time. Not much, but some since I am running behind.